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EVENTS and FESTIVALS

From sporting spectacles to edgy art celebrations, these are the types of Australian events you can experience on a trip Down Under.

Join the party and celebrate Australia – whether it’s the adrenaline rush from the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, a chilled-out break soaking up the music at the Byron Bay Bluesfest or experiencing history and culture at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair in Queensland, Australia has an event that’s sure to feed your passions.

Arts and exhibitions

Our cities play host to a huge array of buzzing festivals, visual arts and design fairs. Stimulate your senses and wander through a million blooming flowers at Floriade, see large scale art along coastal sculpture walks or lose yourself in a field made of light. Australia is also fascinated with performing arts and social calendars are packed with comedy shows, film festivals and theatre. If your creative mind needs new inspiration, check out one of our vibrant festivals or exhibitions and meet some of the country’s best entertainers, storytellers, artists, gardeners and craftsmen.

Culture and community events

With a jam-packed calendar of culture and community celebrations, there’s an Australian event around every corner. These events bring everyone together to celebrate the weird, the wonderful, and of course, the uniquely Australian. The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festival culminates in a colourful and happily chaotic street parade, while Alice Spring's Henley-on-Todd embraces outback fun with a quirky sailing regatta on a dry river bed. Aboriginal culture comes alive through the celebrations and festivals of its people. Immerse yourself in the living cultural traditions of the Dreaming and experience the spirit and variety of Indigenous Australia at its celebrations. No matter when you visit, you can be sure to find Aussies celebrating culture and community.

Food and drink events

Australia has more food festivals in absolute numbers than anywhere else, ranging from regional producer-style markets to internationally recognised events. The gourmet calendar is peppered with events that showcase the region’s best – such as the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival and South Australia’s Tasting Australia – or a locally prized product, like Tasmania’s Whisky Week and the Sydney Craft Beer Festival. Wine connoisseurs also have plenty of dedicated options, including Orange Wine Week, Grampians Grape Escape and the Barossa Gourmet Weekend. These epicurean events entice locals and tourists alike.

Music festivals and live shows

Australian events are all about unforgettable experiences and easygoing atmospheres, and the country’s concerts and music festivals are no exception. Whether you’re into indie, pop, bass, blues, rock or classical, there’s an Australian music festival to fit your fancy. Head to WOMADelaide in Adelaide for seven stages of world music performances, or sway along at the Byron Bay Bluesfest, Australia’s largest blues and roots festival. Come see what’s on at Australian music festivals all year round.

Sports events

Whether it’s riding a wave or riding a camel, Australia has no shortage of riveting sports events. Australian sporting events are as much about fun and fresh air as they are about fierce competition and impressive athleticism. With Australia setting the stage for world-renowned events like the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and the Australian Open, it’s no wonder sport-lovers come from all around to experience the adrenaline-inducing atmosphere and world-class athletes. If you’re looking for a laugh, Australia also plays host to less serious sports events, like Darwin’s Beer Can Regatta, which sees participants race in boats made of cans and bottles. There’s something for everyone on the Australian sports calendar.

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